Lets get some grapes!

[ptk]

I am working with a local vinyard to get some grapes this fall. It is www.cavevineyard.com. They pick the grapes by machine and I have been told that I can go behind the machine and pick what ever is left behind. I think I could also buy some grapes if I want. This Missouri vineyard has Chardonel, Traminette, Chambourcin and Cynthiana/Norton. I have never made wine from fresh grapes but I have all year to get ready! I think I would like to make a batch of each kind of grape. What do you think?

 

[Waldo]

I'd say go for it

 

[Tom]

Get as much as you can

 

[ibglowin]

Start by picking up a couple of Brute trash cans and go for it!

 

[robie]

Why not!
You might get a boatload of grapes. I don't know how effective machines are at picking grapes, but I'll bet there will be some left for you.

 

[CoachPieps]

Anybody got any pictures grape picking machines?

 

[robie]

Google "grape picking machine utube"
You will see several photos on top half of page.

I can't imagine how the grape vine survives such a thing.

 

[ptk]

Anyone here have any expierence making wine from these 4 types of grapes?

 

[ptk]

It looks like there might be some Norton available this weekend! Anyone here ever make a nice wine from a Norton?

 

[Wayne1]

Haven't made any Norton but it is one of my favorite wines actually - wish I could get hold of some grapes here in Florida!

 

[grapeman]

Chardonel is a great grape to work with. If picked ripe, it makes a nice full bodied white wine with fruit forward - lots of crisp apple and pear flavors. Very little work is needed to get it to ferment and clear. Wish I had more growing.

 

[KSKOH]

Just p[cked some Chardonal yesterday. I will pick up the juice next week. What yeast do you recommend? Not sure of the numbers yet will find out when I pick up the juice.

 

[grapeman]

I use Cotes des blancs for my Chardonel. It gives nice fruit and body to the wine.